How to Set Up Your Yamaha MusicCast 20

Beginner 10-15 minutes

What You'll Need

  • Yamaha MusicCast 20
  • MusicCast Controller app (iOS or Android)
  • Wi-Fi network

Step-by-Step Setup

  1. Position the speaker and connect the power cable. The MusicCast 20 is compact and fits easily on a shelf, nightstand, or desk.
  2. Download the MusicCast Controller app and create a Yamaha account or sign in.
  3. Add a new device in the app:
    • Tap "+" or "Add new device"
    • Select MusicCast 20
    • Press the CONNECT button on the back of the speaker and hold it until the LED starts blinking
  4. Connect to Wi-Fi:
    • Your phone will temporarily connect to the speaker's own access point
    • Enter your home Wi-Fi network name and password
    • The speaker joins your home network and your phone reconnects automatically
  5. Assign a room name and customize your settings.

Placement and Sound Tips

The MusicCast 20 is a compact wireless speaker that punches above its weight. For the best sound, place it on a solid surface at about ear level when seated. A bookshelf, kitchen counter, or desk all work well. Like most compact speakers, keeping it a few inches from the back wall helps prevent the bass from getting muddy.

The speaker supports high-resolution audio formats, so if you have a library of FLAC or WAV files, the MusicCast 20 can play them at their full quality over your network. Stream them through the MusicCast app for the best results.

Stereo Pair and Surround Sound

Pair two MusicCast 20 speakers together for stereo playback. In the MusicCast app, link them as a stereo pair and set each as left or right. Place them 4 to 6 feet apart for good channel separation.

You can also use two MusicCast 20 speakers as wireless surround speakers for a Yamaha soundbar or AV receiver that supports MusicCast Surround. This is a cost-effective way to add rear channels without running speaker wire across the room. Set this up through the MusicCast app by linking the speakers to your soundbar.

Multi-Room and Voice Control

The MusicCast ecosystem lets you play music on multiple Yamaha speakers throughout your home. Group speakers in the app and they all play in sync. The MusicCast 20 also supports AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect for direct streaming, and Bluetooth for pairing with your phone when Wi-Fi is not available.

While the MusicCast 20 does not have a built-in microphone, you can control it with Alexa through a separate Echo device. Link the MusicCast skill in the Alexa app and then use voice commands like "Alexa, play jazz in the kitchen" to control playback.

Troubleshooting

  • CONNECT button not working: Press and hold the CONNECT button on the back for about 5 seconds until the LED starts blinking. A quick press may not be enough to enter setup mode.
  • Wi-Fi setup fails: Try the WPS method as an alternative. Press the WPS button on your router within 2 minutes of pressing CONNECT on the speaker. This bypasses the need to manually enter credentials.
  • Surround speakers not linking: Make sure your Yamaha soundbar or receiver supports MusicCast Surround. The two rear speakers must both be MusicCast 20 models. Configure the link through the MusicCast app on the soundbar's page, not the individual speaker pages.
  • Audio dropouts during streaming: Check Wi-Fi signal strength. If the speaker is far from the router, move it closer or add a Wi-Fi extender. Streaming high-res audio requires a stable connection.
  • Factory reset: Press and hold the CONNECT button and the Power button simultaneously for about 5 seconds. The LED will flash, and the speaker will restart in factory default mode.

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